Abstract
The speciation of doped-nitrogen (pyridinic N, pyrrolic N, graphitic N and amino N) was controlled by ferric ion catalysis for improving fluorescence of nitrogen-doped carbon dots (NCDs). Comparing to the synthesis of NCDs without ferric ion catalysis, the present strategy induces two following effects: (1) an increase of pyrrolic N and a decrease of pyridinic N; (2) a more well-organized arrangement of graphitic core and more N moieties exposed on the surface of NCDs. Consequently, absolute fluorescence quantum yield is increased from 6.2% to 27.0% and fluorescence can be further enhanced in acidity-media. Such phenomena provide solid evidence that pyrrolic N enhances the fluorescence of NCDs while pyridinic N inhibits it. Besides, NCDs achieve selective response to ferric ions. The present work provides a deeper insight into the understanding of luminescence mechanism and causes broader interest in manipulating CDs chemical structure.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
